Crater Lake Lodge, located approximately 240 miles from Brookings, Oregon, offers a unique lodging experience at the rim of the deepest lake in the United States. This historic lodge, originally built in 1915 and extensively renovated in 1995, provides visitors with comfortable accommodations, dining options, and access to various activities within Crater Lake National Park. The lodge is typically open from mid-May to early October, depending on weather conditions.
What are the accommodation options at Crater Lake Lodge?
Crater Lake Lodge offers 71 rooms, including:
- Standard rooms
- Deluxe lakeview rooms
- Accessible rooms (6 in total)
Room amenities include:
- Daily maid service
- Free high-speed and wireless internet
- Non-smoking environments
Some rooms may also feature:
- Microwaves
- Free newspapers
The lodge’s common areas boast:
- A Great Hall with a large native stone fireplace
- Tall windows with panoramic views
- Ponderosa pine wood accents
- A porch with rocking chairs overlooking the lake
Room rates range from $169 to $245 per night, depending on the type of room and season.
What dining options are available at Crater Lake Lodge?
The Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room serves three meals a day:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Reservations for dinner are highly recommended and can be made in person at the lodge. While specific menu items are not detailed, the dining room is known for its quality meals. It’s advisable to contact the lodge in advance for any special dietary accommodations.
How can visitors book a stay at Crater Lake Lodge from Brookings?
To book a stay at Crater Lake Lodge, visitors from Brookings have two main options:
- Online reservation through the ExplorCraterLake website
- Phone reservation by calling 541-314-9777
Reservations can be made up to 365 days in advance. It’s important to note the cancellation policy:
- Cancellations or changes must be made at least 7 days prior to the arrival date for a refund of the deposit
- Refunds on cancellations made less than 7 days in advance will be forfeited
What activities and attractions are available near Crater Lake Lodge?
Visitors staying at Crater Lake Lodge can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions:
- Ranger programs (presented daily)
- Hiking trails
- Swimming in designated areas
- Fishing (with proper permits)
- Boating tours
- Horseback riding (seasonal)
The lodge is also close to other recreational facilities such as:
- Campgrounds
- An amphitheater at Mazama Village
Accessibility features include:
- Wheelchair access to common and public areas
- Automated external defibrillators (AEDs)
- First aid/medical care
What should visitors from Brookings know about the journey to Crater Lake Lodge?
When planning a trip from Brookings to Crater Lake Lodge, consider the following:
- Distance: Approximately 240 miles
- Estimated driving time: 4.5 to 5 hours (depending on route and stops)
- Best route: US-101 N and OR-62 E
- Scenic stops along the way:
- Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest
- Grants Pass
- Medford
| Season | Road Conditions | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Generally good | Bring sun protection and water |
| Fall | Variable | Check for early snow at higher elevations |
| Winter | Challenging | Lodge is typically closed; check park website for updates |
| Spring | Improving | Be prepared for lingering snow and cool temperatures |
What are the best times to visit Crater Lake Lodge from Brookings?
The best times to visit Crater Lake Lodge from Brookings are:
- Late June to early September:
- Warmest temperatures
- All park facilities and roads are typically open
-
Best chance for clear views of the lake
-
Late September to early October:
- Fall colors
- Fewer crowds
- Cooler temperatures
Keep in mind:
- The lodge is typically open from mid-May to early October
- Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak season
- Weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts before your trip
By planning ahead and considering these factors, visitors from Brookings can make the most of their journey to Crater Lake Lodge and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Crater Lake National Park.
References:
1. Crater Lake Lodge – explorecraterlake.com
2. Crater Lake Lodge (U.S. National Park Service) – nps.gov
3. Lodging In the Park – Crater Lake National Park – nps.gov